In the captivating novel "Freddie vs the Family Curse," author Simon Nicholson takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions as we follow the life of protagonist Freddie, a young boy grappling with a daunting family curse. Right from the start, Nicholson immerses readers in Freddie's world, carefully crafting an intriguing mix of mystery and suspense that keeps us engaged until the very end. The story centers around the eerie curse that has haunted Freddie's family for generations. As the youngest member of the family, Freddie becomes determined to uncover the truth behind the curse and break free from its grip. With each chapter, we witness Freddie's relentless pursuit of answers, fueled by a combination of curiosity and an unyielding desire for freedom. Nicholson skillfully builds tension throughout the narrative, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they accompany Freddie on his journey.
Novice witch learns to control her magic in funny novel.
Elle makes her middle grade debut in this magical new series about a Black girl who learns she s a witch and must save her inner-city magic school from closing, perfect for fans of Wendy Mass. Elle has created the magic school we ve all been waiting for it is funny and sweet and absolutely charming, and middle grade readers will be going wild for this gem of a novel that is literal Black Girl Magic.
Nicholson skillfully builds tension throughout the narrative, leaving readers on the edge of their seats as they accompany Freddie on his journey. The author's vivid descriptions allow us to vividly imagine the suspenseful scenes and feel the weight of Freddie's fear and determination. As we delve deeper into the story, the curse's origins and its impact on Freddie's family are gradually revealed, adding layers of complexity to the plot.
A Taste of Magic
“An enchanting adventure that will leave readers hungry for more.” – Kwame Mbalia, #1 New York Times bestselling author
New York Times bestselling author J. Elle makes her middle grade debut in this magical new series about a Black girl who learns she's a witch and must save her inner-city magic school from closing, perfect for fans of Wendy Mass.
Kyana Turner has just found out the family secret--she's a witch! This means mandatory lessons every Saturday at Park Row Magick Academy, the magic school hidden in the back of her local beauty shop. Learning spells, discovering charms and potion recipes, and getting a wand made to match her hair's curl pattern, Kyana feels like she's a part of something really special. The hardest part will be keeping her magic a secret from non-Magick folks, including her BFF, Nae.
But when the school loses funding, the students must either pay a hefty tuition at the academy across town or have their magic stripped . . . permanently. Determined not to let that happen, Kyana comes up with a plan to win a huge cash prize in a baking competition. After all, she's learned how to make the best desserts from her memaw. But as Kyana struggles to keep up with magic and regular school, prepare for the competition, and keep her magic secret, she wonders if it's possible to save her friendships, too. And what will she do when, in the first round of competition, a forbidden dollop of magic whisks into her cupcakes?
J. Elle's debut middle grade fantasy is full of humor, heart, and mouthwatering desserts.
One of the novel's strengths is its well-developed characters. Freddie, in particular, is a sympathetic and relatable protagonist. Nicholson expertly captures the struggles and emotions that come with being burdened by a family curse, showcasing Freddie's resilience and unwavering spirit. Supporting characters, such as Freddie's supportive best friend and his enigmatic aunt, add depth and contribute to the overall richness of the story. Moreover, in "Freddie vs the Family Curse," Nicholson masterfully explores themes of self-discovery, the power of family bonds, and the importance of perseverance. Through Freddie's journey, we witness his personal growth as he confronts his fears, faces challenges, and ultimately finds inner strength to confront the curse head-on. Overall, "Freddie vs the Family Curse" is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that demonstrates Simon Nicholson's talent for storytelling. With its compelling plot, well-written characters, and exploration of powerful themes, this book is a must-read for fans of mystery and adventure. Nicholson leaves readers with a satisfying resolution that showcases the triumph of the human spirit and the ability to overcome even the darkest of circumstances..
Reviews for "The Curse Strikes Again: Freddie's Fight for Freedom"
1. Sarah - 2 stars
I was really disappointed with "Freddie vs the Family Curse". The story was confusing and lacked depth. It tried to be a horror-comedy, but failed to deliver on both fronts. The jokes were forced and fell flat, while the horror elements were predictable and cliché. The characters were one-dimensional and unlikable, making it hard to connect with them. Overall, I found this movie to be a waste of my time.
2. Mark - 1 star
"Freddie vs the Family Curse" was a complete disaster. The plot was all over the place, and I couldn't follow what was happening half the time. The acting was subpar, with the actors delivering their lines in a monotonous manner. The special effects were laughable and didn't add any excitement to the movie. I was hoping for an entertaining horror film, but I was sorely disappointed. Do yourself a favor and skip this one.
3. Emily - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "Freddie vs the Family Curse," but it left me unsatisfied. The storyline lacked originality and seemed to borrow heavily from other horror movies. The characters were forgettable and their actions didn't make much sense. The scares were predictable and failed to build any tension. The only redeeming quality was the cinematography, which was visually pleasing at times. However, that alone couldn't make up for the lackluster plot. I wouldn't recommend this movie to fans of the genre.
4. John - 1 star
"Freddie vs the Family Curse" was a complete letdown. The script was poorly written, with cheesy dialogue and a nonsensical plot. The acting was wooden, and I couldn't connect with any of the characters. The scares were lackluster and failed to evoke any genuine fear. The movie dragged on and felt much longer than its actual runtime. Overall, this was a waste of money and time. I would advise anyone to steer clear of this disappointment.